Day 9 - Bristol to Monmouth

A really good day today and another 35 miles in the bank. 25% of this crazy challenge is now done.😎

With my left ankle still slightly swollen I was a little concerned about how it might hold up today, but it improved as the day went on.

We set off today from the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the early running was on really nice trails through Bristol before taking some country lanes out to the old Severn Bridge. Again the cambers on these lanes agitated my left ankle a little but it held up ok.

I ran with Soraya all day today. It was a bit of a surprise to both of us to be out front, given we had been amongst the top users of the cryo-cuff on the rest day. Labrooks would have given you long odds on that one!

Crossing the Severn Bridge was a great experience with Abbi & Kirsten at the other side to welcome us into Wales. (Not sure why the Welsh Government haven't got a dobbin' great sign with a dragon welcoming folk to this proud nation?)

Lunch was at Chepstow Castle complete with Welsh bunting and serviettes. This was also an opportunity to change from road to trail shoes for the afternoon's entertainment up the Wye Valley.

We ran up the West side of the valley and took in some of the high points like the Eagle's Nest viewing point. It was very satisfying to be able to see the Severn Bridge away in the far distance.

We then descend in to. the valley for a final run in to Monmouth along the river. It felt great to be on familiar trails from my Recce run back in November.(Running Wales YouTube link)

The running with Soraya was nice and relaxed (felt like a social run) & the support crew were once again absolutely superb. Finish today was at our accommodation which made logistics simple... in, drink, bath, physio appointment with Emmie, cryo-cuff, then evening meal (or two!) Shane, who left us early on had already placed his food order for tonight before he dropped out hence there was a spare meal ... so I took one for the team.😋 "An army marches on its belly" and all that. And this army is heading for the Black Mountains tomorrow!